President Bola Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) on former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong.

 

 

 

The defender confirmed the honour on Tuesday after receiving his official certificate, which followed the announcement made the previous night.

 

 

 

 

 

He expressed gratitude to the President and described the recognition as a proud moment for himself and his family.

 

 

 

“I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (@officialABAT), for conferring on me the MFR national honour.

 

 

 

“I have been sent the official certificate today following the announcement last night. It’s a very proud moment for me and my family to receive this recognition,” he wrote.

 

 

 

 

 

The 32-year-old defender expressed his gratitude to the country that gave him the platform to achieve his dreams.

 

 

 

“Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the platform to live my dream through football.

 

 

 

“Wearing the green and white has always been a great responsibility, privilege, and a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people,” he said.

 

 

 

“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish the team every success.

 

 

 

“As promised, I’ll be supporting them all the way. I believe in this group, our nation, and what we can achieve,” he added.

 

 

 

 

 

In the certificate attached to his post, Tinubu formally conferred the honour, stating,” In exercise of the powers vested in me under section 1(4) of the National Honours Act, I, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in appreciation of your services to our country, Nigeria, HEREBY award to you to have, and enjoy title, dignity and all the privileges of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).”

 

 

 

Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria to a runner-up finish at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire before announcing his retirement from international football.